This Creamy Chicken and Rice is a comforting one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, velvety sauce with peas and carrots for color and sweetness. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—creamy, hearty, and full of flavor.
Perfect as a main course, side dish, or even a light casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Rich & Creamy: Heavy cream and Parmesan create a silky, indulgent sauce.
- 🍚 Fluffy Rice Base: Long-grain rice cooks perfectly in broth before soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 🥦 Colorful Veggies: Peas and carrots add nutrition and brightness.
- ⏱️ One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in under 40 minutes.
- 🎉 Great for Gatherings: Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or extra butter)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts , diced into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- 1 small onion , finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed if preferred)
- 2½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter version)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for less richness)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh steamed veggies)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp paprika (for subtle warmth and color)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley , chopped (plus more for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt:
- Butter
- Olive oil
Add diced chicken , seasoned with salt and pepper , and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add:
- Diced onion
- Minced garlic
Cook for 2–3 minutes , stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Stir in rice and toast it lightly in the butter-oil mixture for 1–2 minutes , just until translucent around the edges.
This step enhances the nutty flavor and helps the rice absorb liquid evenly.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes , or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Creamy Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Stir in:
- Heavy cream
- Peas and carrots
- Parmesan cheese
- Paprika
Cook uncovered for 5 minutes , stirring gently until everything is warm and blended together.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve Warm
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm as a standalone comfort bowl or pair with crusty bread and a green salad for a full meal.
Tips for Success:
- 🧄 Use Fresh Garlic: For best aroma and depth of flavor.
- 🥣 Lighten It Up: Use milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- 🧑🍳 Make Ahead Magic: Reheats well—add a splash of broth or cream when warming.
- ❄️ Freeze for Later: Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- 🌿 Herb Boost: Stir in thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra herbal notes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect alongside roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
- Great for lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings.
- Ideal for baby showers, family dinners, or cozy nights in.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
(With regular dairy – approximate values)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~3g
This Creamy Chicken and Rice is a dreamy blend of comfort and flavor. With its soft texture, rich sauce, and hint of Parmesan—it’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together in one pan with minimal effort.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you take a spoonful—you won’t want to stop!
